Sustainable Development
Eawag carries out its research activities in accordance with the principle of sustainable development and is committed to the socially, economically and environmentally responsible management of water resources and aquatic ecosystems. Eawag attaches great importance to the conservation of resources, and the highly energy-efficient Forum Chriesbach building is notable for its pioneering approach to water management.
Forum Chriesbach – sustainability in public sector construction
The new Eawag headquarters – Forum Chriesbach – has set new standards in sustainable construction. The administration and research building, opened in 2006, has no conventional heating or cooling systems in the office areas, and its heating energy requirements are extremely low. A rooftop photovoltaic system and the purchase of naturemade star green power ensure that electricity generation and supplies are renewable and environmentally sound. The investments in energy efficiency are more than offset by lower operating costs.
Eco-Team
Eawag attaches great importance to eco-management. The Eco-Team is responsible for sustainable management of energy, consumables and other resources. It provides support and encouragement at all levels to ensure environmentally sound behaviour at Eawag. The Eco-Team supports the implementation of measures to achieve Eawag’s energy goals: all staff travel is to be carbon-neutral, and electricity and heating requirements are to be progressively met by renewable energy (electricity 100% renewable by 2010). Other Eco‑Team initiatives include near-natural landscaping, organic produce at the staff canteen, incentive schemes promoting the use of public transport or cycling and carbon offsetting for unavoidable air travel.